Overbed table for use with a patient support

ABSTRACT

An overbed table configured to support a table section above a patient support surface, such as a hospital bed. The overbed table includes a frame having a base and a substantially vertical support column for supporting the table section. In one illustrative embodiment, a display device is supported by the overbed table. In a further illustrative embodiment, a camera is supported by the overbed table.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/849,580, filed May 4, 2001, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/202,283, filed May 5, 2000,and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/229,136, filed Aug.30, 2000, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 09/835,002, filed Apr. 13, 2001, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/251,950, filed Dec. 7, 2000,and further claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 60/310,092, filed Aug. 3, 2001, the disclosures of which areexpressly incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to overbed tables of the type extendingabove a patient support surface. More particularly, the inventionrelates to an overbed table incorporating a display device and/or acamera configured to be used by a patient supported on a hospital bed orby a caregiver located adjacent to the bed.

The present invention provides an overbed table of the type cantileveredover a patient support, such as a hospital bed, and configured tosupport materials utilized by a patient.

According to an illustrative embodiment of the invention, an overbedtable includes a frame coupled to first and second table sections,wherein the second table section is supported in vertically spacedrelation to the first table section. A support is positioned in verticalspaced relation to the first table section and is configured to moverelative to the first table section within a substantially horizontalplane. A display screen is coupled to the support and is configured tomove between a substantially horizontal storage position and asubstantially vertical use position.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, at least one of the firsttable section and the second table section is configured to move in asubstantially horizontal plane with respect to the other of the secondtable section and the first table section. Illustratively, the secondtable section is coupled to the first table section and the frame suchthat movement of the second table section results in sliding movement ofthe first table section.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the supportcomprises an arm having first and second handles, wherein the displayscreen is supported intermediate the first and second handles.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, the support is pivotablyconnected to the first table section.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, the display screen iscoupled to the support for pivoting movement about a substantiallyhorizontal first axis and for pivoting movement about a second axisextending substantially perpendicular to the first axis.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the display screenis located intermediate the first and second table sections in thestorage position and extends above the first table section in the useposition.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, the display screen comprisesone of a flat panel monitor and a reflective mirror.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, a camera is supportedproximate the display screen.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the first tablesection is supported by the frame for movement between a generallyvertical position and a generally horizontal position.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the second tablesection is releasably coupled to the first table section and the framepermits movement of the first table section between a generally verticalposition and a generally horizontal position independently of the secondtable section.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, the first table section issupported by the frame by an inner member provided on one of the frameand the first table section and an outer member provided on the other ofthe frame and the first table section, the inner member extendingrotatably and slidably through the outer member to permit slidingmovement and pivoting movement of the first table section with respectto the frame.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a rest is supportedby one of the frame and the first table section, the rest configured tosupport the first table section in the generally horizontal position.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, the frame includes atelescoping support column having an outer column portion and an innercolumn portion, the telescoping support column supporting the first andsecond table sections, and a base coupled to the telescoping supportcolumn.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the second tablesection is coupled to the first table section by a first pivotalcoupling between the first and second table sections.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, the first pivotal couplingincludes a first bearing provided on one of the first and second tablesections and a bearing race provided on the other of the first andsecond table sections, the first bearing engaging the bearing race topermit pivoting of the second table section about a first axis withrespect to the first table section. The second table section isillustratively coupled to the frame by a second pivotal coupling betweenthe second table section and the frame.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, the second pivotal couplingincludes a trunnion provided on one of the frame and the second tablesection and a recess provided on the other of the frame and the secondtable section for receiving the trunnion to permit pivoting of thesecond table section about a second axis with respect to the first tablesection, the second axis being spaced from the first axis.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, the display screen iscoupled to the first table section by a third pivotal coupling connectedto the first table section.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a processor isprovided in communication with the display screen.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, a connector is supported bythe frame and is configured to operably connect with a bed frame forplacing the display screen in communication with a processor.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, an overbed tableincludes a frame having a vertically extending support column, a tablesection supported by the frame and configured to cantilever over apatient support surface including opposing head and foot ends, and acamera supported by the frame and directed toward the head end of thepatient support.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, a display screen issupported by the frame and includes a viewable surface directed towardthe head end of the patient support surface. The camera isillustratively supported by the display screen.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a support isconfigured to move relative to the table section within a substantiallyhorizontal plane, the display screen being coupled to the support andconfigured to move between a substantially horizontal storage positionand a substantially vertical use position.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, a processor is supported bythe frame and is in communication with the camera.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a connector issupported by the frame and is configured to operably connect with a bedframe for placing the camera in communication with a remote processor.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, at least one solar cell issupported by the frame and is operably connected to the camera, whereinthe at least one solar cell is alignable with a light source connectedto the patient support surface.

According to a further illustrative embodiment of the invention, anoverbed table includes a frame having a vertically extending supportcolumn, and a table section supported by the frame and configured tocantilever over a patient support surface including opposing head andfoot ends, and a display device supported by the frame and coupled to apower source. The display device includes first and second sides, and aviewable surface supported by the first side and directed toward thehead end of the patient support.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, a camera is supported by theframe and is directed toward the head end of the patient supportsurface. The camera is provided in communication with the displaydevice, thereby defining an electronic mirror.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the camera issupported by the display device.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, a support is configured tomove relative to the table section within a substantially horizontalplane, the display device being coupled to the support and configured tomove between a substantially horizontal storage position and asubstantially vertical use position.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a processor issupported by the frame and is in communication with the display device.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, a connector is supported bythe frame and is configured to operably connect to a bed frame forplacing the display device in communication with a remote processor.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, at least one solarcell is supported by the frame and is operably connected to the displaydevice, wherein the at least one solar cell is alignable with a lightsource connected to the patient support surface.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, a reflective mirror issupported by the second side of the display device.

According to another illustrative embodiment of the invention, anoverbed table includes a table section having upper and lower surfaces,the table section being configured to cantilever over a patient supportsurface. The overbed table further includes a support positioned invertical spaced relation to the table section, at least one of the tablesection and the support being configured to move relative to the otherof the support and the table section, and a monitor coupled to thesupport and in communication with a power source.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, the monitor is coupled tothe support for movement between a storage position below the lowersurface of the first table section and a use position extending abovethe upper surface of the first table section.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, the support comprises an armpivotally supported below the lower surface of the table section forpivoting movement about a substantially vertical axis.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a coupler connectsthe monitor and the arm, the coupler supporting the monitor for a firstpivoting movement about a substantially horizontal axis and for a secondpivoting movement about a second axis substantially perpendicular to thefirst axis.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a keyboard iscoupled to the support.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the supportcomprises a tray slidably supported below the table section and defininga storage compartment, the monitor being supported by the tray forpivoting movement about a substantially horizontal axis. The monitor isillustratively configured to fold into the storage compartment beneaththe table section.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, the monitor is supported byan arm configured to move vertically relative to the table section. Thearm illustratively includes a vertical portion, a horizontal portionpivotally connected to the vertical portion, and a coupler connectingthe monitor to the horizontal portion. The coupler supports the monitorfor a first pivoting movement about a first axis and for a secondpivoting movement about a second axis disposed substantiallyperpendicular to the first axis.

According to yet another illustrative embodiment of the invention, anoverbed table includes a frame, a housing coupled to the frame anddefining a storage compartment, and a table section coupled to thehousing. The table section is supported for movement between first andsecond positions, the first position substantially covering the storagecompartment and the second position providing access to the storagecompartment. A display screen is coupled to a power source and isremovably supported within the storage compartment.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, the display screen issupported by an arm including a vertical portion. The arm illustrativelyincludes a horizontal portion coupled to the vertical portion, and acoupler connects the display screen to the horizontal portion. Thecoupler supports the display screen for a first pivoting movement abouta first axis and for a second pivoting movement about a second axisdisposed substantially perpendicular to the first axis.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, a collapsible stand iscoupled to the display screen for supporting the display screen on anupper surface of the table section.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the display screencomprises a flat panel monitor.

Illustratively according to the embodiment, a processor is incommunication with the display screen.

Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a connector issupported by the frame and is configured to operably connect with a bedframe for placing the display screen in communication with a remoteprocessor.

Additional features of the invention will become apparent to thoseskilled in the art upon consideration of the following detaileddescription when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The detailed description particularly refers to the accompanying figuresin which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an illustrative embodiment overbed tableof the present invention, illustrating the second table section and thedisplay support in closed or storage positions;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 1, illustrating the secondtable section and the display support in open or use positions;

FIG. 3 is a partially exploded perspective view of the overbed table ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a top plan view, with a partial cut-away, of the overbed tableof FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a top plan view similar to FIG. 4, illustrating the secondtable section in an open or use position and the display support in aclosed or storage position;

FIG. 6 is a top plan view similar to FIG. 4, illustrating the secondtable section and the display support in open or use positions;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the overbed table of FIG. 1 illustratingthe first table section in an upright or cleaning position;

FIG. 8 is a detailed perspective view of the overbed table, with apartial cut-away of the display coupler;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a further illustrative embodimentoverbed table of the present invention, illustrating the second tablesection and the display screen in open positions;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 9, illustrating the secondtable section in a closed position;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of yet another illustrative embodimentoverbed table of the present invention, illustrating the first tablesection and the display screen in open positions;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 11, illustrating the firsttable section in a closed position;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a further illustrative embodimentoverbed table of the present invention, illustrating the display screenin a fully deployed or use mode of operation;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 13, illustrating thedisplay screen in a stored mode of operation;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the overbed table of FIG. 13,illustrating the display screen in a first partially deployed mode ofoperation;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the overbed table of FIG. 13,illustrating the display screen in a second partially deployed mode ofoperation;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a further illustrative embodimentoverbed table of the present invention, illustrating the display screenincorporated within a phone and positioned in a fully deployed or usemode of operation;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 17, illustrating thedisplay screen in a stored mode of operation;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a further illustrative embodimentoverbed table of the present invention, illustrating a display screenpivotally supported in a storage position within a storage compartmentand positioned in a use mode of operation extending above the firsttable section;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 19, illustrating thedisplay screen in a storage position below the first table section;

FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of a further illustrative embodimentoverbed table of the present invention, illustrating a display screenconfigured to be removably supported within a storage compartment belowthe table section in a storage position and supported on the tablesection in a use position;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the display screen similar to that ofFIG. 21 with the display screen rotated 180° about a vertical axis;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a further illustrative embodimentoverbed table of the present invention, illustrating a docking connectorand a solar power device supported by the base of the frame of theoverbed table; and

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the interaction of theoverbed table of FIG. 23 when fully docked to a hospital bed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring initially to FIGS. 1–3, an overbed table 10 according to anillustrative embodiment of the present invention includes a base 12 anda telescoping support column 14. The base 12 and the telescoping supportcolumn 14 combine to form a frame 15 which supports first and secondtable sections 16 and 18. In the following description, the first tablesection 16 may also be referred to as an upper table, and the secondtable section may also be referred to as a food tray. The first andsecond table sections 16 and 18 are mounted in vertically spacedrelation proximate an upper end 17 of the support column 14.Illustratively, the first table section 16 is positioned in spacedrelation above the second table section 18, thereby defining a verticalspace or an open region 19 therebetween. The base 12 is generallyI-shaped in plan view and is illustratively provided at its fourextremities or corners with casters 20 which facilitate the convenientpositioning of the overbed table 10.

The telescoping support column 14 illustratively extends upwardly fromthe base 12 at an angle of, for example, 0° to 10° generally to verticalto facilitate positioning of the overbed table 10 with respect to aconventional bed 21. More particularly, the support column 14 isconfigured to be positioned adjacent a conventional bed frame 22including bed rail 23 supporting a mattress 24 (FIGS. 23 and 24).

The support column 14 includes upper and lower telescoping portions 26and 28, respectively. The upper portion 26 is configured to move in agenerally vertical direction relative to the lower portion 28.Additional details of the support column 14 are provided in co-pendingpatent application Ser. No. 09/835,002, which is assigned to theassignee of the present invention and is expressly incorporated byreference herein.

Referring further to FIGS. 1, 3 and 4, a sleeve 30 is provided proximatethe upper end 17 of the support column 14 and extends in a generallyhorizontal direction. The first table section 16 includes a rod or tube32 having substantially the same cross-section transverse to itslongitudinal axis as an interior channel 34 of the sleeve 30 (FIG. 3).The rod or tube 32 extends through the sleeve 30 and is slidably androtatably movable about its longitudinal axis 36 within the sleeve 30,as illustrated in FIGS. 3, 4, 5, and 7 to permit the first table section16 to slide linearly away from the second table section 18 and to rotatebetween a generally upright vertical position and a horizontal tableposition.

Adjacent its upper end 17, the support column 14, as illustrated best inFIGS. 1 and 3, is also provided with a beam 38 which forms a portion ofthe frame 15. A proximal end 40 of the beam 38 is mounted to the supportcolumn 14 and an opposite distal or remote end 42 extends from thesupport column 14 in a direction generally parallel to the base 12. Assuch, it may be appreciated that the first table section 16 is supportedin a manner such that it cantilevers out from the support column 14. Theremote end 42 of the beam 38 is provided with a rest 44 which limits thedownward pivoting of the first table section 16 as the rod or tube 32pivots within sleeve 30. An underside or lower surface 46 of the firsttable section 16 may include a bearing surface 48 which slides on therest 44 to reduce wear on the lower surface 46 of the table section 16.A conventional latch (not shown) may be provided to releasably securethe table section 16 to the beam 38.

Referring now to FIGS. 1–3 and 7, a storage tray or bin 49 isillustratively supported by the remote end 42 of the beam 38. Thestorage bin 49 includes a pair of side walls 50 and 51 and a pair of endwalls 52 and 53 connected to a bottom wall 54. The end walls 52 and 53have notches 55 formed therein to facilitate access to the storage bin49 when the first table section 16 is positioned thereabove. A mountingtab 56 is connected to the side wall 51 and is secured to the remote end42 of the beam 38 through a conventional fastener, such as a bolt 57threadably received by a nut 58.

An upper surface 60 of the first table section 16 may include aplurality of recesses 61 adapted to receive and secure conventionalobjects that may be used by a person supported on the bed 21 or by acaregiver located adjacent to the bed 21, such as cups and plates (notshown). Additionally a bumper 62 may be secured around a peripheral edgeof the first table section 16 in order to protect surfaces which maycome in contact with the overbed table 10. The bumper 62 is preferablyformed from a resilient material, such as an elastomer or thermoplastic.

As shown in FIG. 3, the second table section 18 includes a lower surface63 an upper bearing 64 which is generally circular in plan view andprovides a generally flat bearing surface. Intermediate the proximal end40, adjacent the support column 14, and the distal end 42, the beam 38is provided with a complementary lower bearing surface 66 which is alsogenerally flat and circular. One of the second table section 18 and thebeam 38 (beam 38 in the illustrated embodiment) is provided with a pivotpost 68, and the other of the second table section 18 and the beam 38(second table section 18 in the illustrated embodiment) is provided witha recess 70 for receiving the pivot post 68. The second table section 18is releasably mounted and moves pivotally about pivot axis 72 on thepivot post 68.

On its upwardly facing surface 74 at its distal end 76 remote from thesupport column 14, the second table section 18 is provided with a rollerbearing 78. The lower surface 46 of the first table section 16 includesa bearing track 80 for receiving the roller bearing 78 when the firsttable section 16 is in its lowered position resting on the rest 44. Withthis linkage, pivotal movement of the second table section 18 within ahorizontal plane results in sliding movement of the first table section16 along sleeve 30 in a second, parallel horizontal plane. Asillustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, pivotal movement of the proximal end 82 ofthe second table section 18 away from the support column 14 of the frame15 in the direction of arrow 84 results in sliding movement of the firsttable section 16 in a generally opposite direction as represented byarrow 86 (FIG. 5). Pivotal movement of end 82 of second table section 18toward outer support column 14 of frame 15 in the direction of arrow 88results in sliding movement of the first table section 16 in a directiongenerally toward the second table section 18 as represented by arrow 90.

Similarly, sliding movement of the first table section 16 away from thesecond table section 18 in the direction of arrow 86 results in pivotalmovement of the end 82 of the second table section 18 generally awayfrom the support column 14 in the direction of arrow 84. Slidingmovement of first table section 16 toward the support column 14 in thedirection of arrow 90 results in pivotal movement of the end 72 of thesecond table section 18 toward the support column 14 and the first tablesection 16 in the direction of arrow 88.

Generally, it will be understood that horizontal movement in one planeof one table section 16, 18 results in similar horizontal movement in anadjacent, substantially parallel plane of the other table section 16,18. In a storage position, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the second tablesection 18 is positioned below the first table section 16. In the useposition, as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the second table section 18is moved at least partially out from under the first table section 16.

The second table section 18 illustratively includes a pair of handles 92and 94 positioned proximate opposing longitudinal side edges 96 and 97thereof to facilitate pivoting movement of the second table section 18about the pivot post 68. The handles 92 and 94 are configured to extendoutwardly from beneath opposing side edges 98 and 99 of the first tablesection 16. Each handle 92 and 94 may include a gripping portion 100 and102 to be utilized by a patient in deploying the second table section 18from the storage position (FIG. 4) to the use position (FIG. 5). Thegripping portions 100 and 102 are illustratively formed from a highfriction resilient material such as an elastomer.

With reference to FIGS. 2–4 and 6–8, a support arm 104 is supportedwithin the open region 19 in vertically spaced relation to both thefirst and second table sections 16 and 18. More particularly, the arm104 is positioned intermediate, or sandwiched between, the first andsecond table sections 16 and 18. The arm 104 is supported for pivotingmovement within a substantially horizontal plane about a pivot axis 106(FIG. 3). The lower surface 46 of the first table section 16illustratively includes a bearing 108 which is generally circular inplan view and provides a generally flat bearing surface for the arm 104.A pivot post 110 is received within a recess 112 formed within thebearing 108. The pivot post 110 may comprise a conventional fastenerpassing through an opening 114 formed within the arm 104 and threadablyreceived within the recess 112. The arm 104 moves pivotally about thepivot post 110, and hence the pivot axis 106, between a storage position(FIGS. 4 and 5) and a use position (FIG. 6).

The arm 104 illustratively includes a substantially U-shaped portion 116and a connecting portion 118. The U-shaped portion 116 supports a pairof handles 120 and 122 to facilitate pivoting movement of the arm 104 bya patient. The handles 120 and 122 are configured to extend outwardlyfrom beneath the opposing side edges 98 and 99 of the first tablesection 16. A display screen or device 124 is supported by the U-shapedportion 116 of the arm 104 by a coupler 126.

With reference to FIG. 8, the coupler 126 includes a first body portion128 supported for pivoting movement about a substantially horizontalfirst pivot axis 130. A first pin 132 couples the first body portion 128to the U-shaped portion 116 of the arm 104. A second body portion 134 issupported by the first body portion 128 for pivoting movement about asecond pivot axis 136 disposed substantially perpendicular to the firstpivot axis 130. A second pin 138 couples the second body portion 134 tothe first body portion 128. In turn, the display device 124 is fixed tothe second body portion 134.

The display device 124 includes first and second sides 142 and 144, withthe first side 142 supporting a viewable surface 146 and configured toface toward a head end 148 of the bed 21 (FIG. 23). The display device124 illustratively comprises a conventional computer monitor wherein theviewable surface 146 comprises an electronic display 150 (FIG. 8). Aconventional mirror 152 may be supported by the second side 144 of thedisplay device 124 (FIG. 4). As may be appreciated, the user mayalternatively use the electronic display 150 and the mirror 152 bysimply rotating the display device 124 about the second pivot axis 136by moving the second body portion 134 around the second pin 138. In anillustrated embodiment, the display device 124 comprises a flat panelmonitor and the electronic display 150 comprises a high resolutionliquid crystal display. The viewable surface 146 of the display device124 may be defined by other conventional screens including, but notlimited to, a television screen, or a projection screen, or aconventional mirror. If the display 150 comprises a projection screen,then images may be projected from a remote location onto the viewablesurface 146. More particularly, a conventional projector (not shown) maybe supported by a structure (such as a ceiling) remote from the overbedtable 10 and is configured to project information onto the viewablesurface 146.

A processor 154 is supported by the frame 15 and most preferably isfixed proximate the upper end 17 of the support column 14. The processor154 is in communication with the display device 124 through conventionaltransmission means, which may include wires or wireless transmitter andreceiver (not shown). A power source in the form of a battery 156 maylikewise be secured proximate an upper end 17 of the support column 14and is in communication with the display device 124. It should beappreciated that both the processor 154 and the battery 156 may belocated remote from the overbed table 10 wherein communication means areprovided in order for the display device 124 to interact with theprocessor 154 and the battery 156, such as detailed below.

A camera 160, such as a video or digital still image camera, isillustratively supported by the display device 124. The camera 160 is incommunication with the processor 154 and may have power supplied by thebattery 156. In one illustrative embodiment, the camera 160 providesimages to the processor 154 which are then transmitted to the electronicdisplay 150. As such, the electronic display 150, the processor 154, andthe camera 160 define an electronic mirror. In other words, the patientfacing the camera 160 will see his or her image electronically generatedin the electronic display 150.

A further illustrative embodiment of an overbed table 210 is shown inFIGS. 9 and 10. The overbed table 210 illustratively includes a firsttable section 212 positioned in vertical spaced relation above a secondtable section 214. The first table section 212 is supported for slidingmovement and the second table section 214 is supported for pivotingmovement relative to the first table section 212 in the manner describedabove with respect to the first table section 16 and the second tablesection 18 of the illustrative embodiment overbed table 10.

A recess 216 extends downwardly from an upper surface 218 of the secondtable section 214. The display device 124 is supported by the secondtable section 214 illustratively through a hinge 220 for pivotingmovement about a substantially horizontal pivot axis 222. The displaydevice 124 is adapted to pivot about the pivot axis 222 defined by thehinge 220 between a substantially upright use position (FIG. 9) and asubstantially horizontal storage position (FIG. 10). In the storageposition, the display device 124 is received within the recess 216 suchthat the rear or second side 144 of the display device 124 issubstantially flush with the upper surface 218 of the second tablesection 214. In the embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10, no separate supportarm is required for the display device 124.

Turning now to FIGS. 11 and 12, a further embodiment overbed table 310including a frame 15 supporting a first table section 312. A storagetray 314 is supported in vertical spaced relation below the first tablesection 312 and is configured to move within a substantially horizontalplane in a direction generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 315of the first table section 312. The display device 124 is coupled tofirst and second spaced apart arms 316 and 318 which provide forpivoting movement of the display device 124 from an open or use positionwhere the display device 124 is extending upwardly out of the storagetray 314 (FIG. 11) to a closed or storage position where the displaydevice 124 is received within the storage tray 314 below the horizontalplane defined by the first table section 312 (FIG. 12). As illustratedin FIG. 11, first ends 320 and 322 of the arms 316 and 318 are pivotallyconnected to longitudinally extending side walls 324 and 326 of thestorage tray 314, while opposing second ends 328 and 330 of the arms 316and 318 are pivotally connected to an upper portion of the displaydevice 124. The first ends 320 and 322 of the arms 316 and 318 may beslidably received with channels 332 extending within the side walls 324and 326 to facilitate folding of the display device 124 into the storagetray 314.

In operation, the display device 124 may be moved between an openposition (FIG. 11) and a closed position (FIG. 12) by folding the arms320 and 322 downwardly into the storage tray 314 such that the displaydevice 124 is nested intermediate the side walls 324 and 326. Thestorage tray 314 may then be slidably moved in a direction toward thefirst table section 312 and into the storage position where the storagetray 314 is located in vertically spaced relation immediately below thefirst table section 312.

Referring now to FIGS. 13–16, a further embodiment of the overbed table410 of the present invention is illustrated as including a frame 15supporting a storage unit 412. The storage unit 412 may include aplurality of shelves 414 for use by the patient or a caregiver. Itshould be appreciated that the shelves 414 may be enclosed by doors (notshown), or replaced with sliding drawers or removable bins (not shown).

A first or upper table section 416 is slidably supported by the storageunit 412 for movement substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis417 of the first table section 416 (FIG. 14). Moreover, the first tablesection 416 may include a first or inner guide member 418 supported bythe first table section 416, and a second or outer guide member 420supported by the storage unit 412. As such, the table section 416 may bemoved back and forth within a substantially horizontal plane in thedirection of double headed arrow 422 to provide access to a storagerecess 424 defined by the storage unit 412. The display device 124 issupported within the storage recess 424 when in a storage position (FIG.14). The display device 124 is supported by an arm 426 configured tomove vertically relative to the table section 416. The arm 426 includesa vertical portion 428 supported by the storage unit 412 and pivotableabout a substantially vertical axis 430. A horizontal portion 432 ispivotally connected to the vertical portion 428 and a coupler 434connects the display device 124 to the horizontal portion 432. Thecoupler 434 supports the display device 124 for a first pivotingmovement about a first axis 436 and for second pivoting movement about asecond axis 438 which is disposed substantially perpendicular to thefirst axis 436 (FIG. 16).

Referring further to FIG. 16, the coupler 434 includes a first member440 rotatable about the first axis 436 and a second member 442 rotatableabout the second axis 438. The arm 426 in combination with the coupler434 provides for movement of the display device 124 into any one of aplurality of different positions as illustrated in FIGS. 13–16.

As illustrated in the alternative illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 17and 18, a communication device, such as a telephone 444 may be supportedby the arm 426′ adjacent the display device 124. Moreover, the displaydevice 124 and the telephone 444 may be part of an overall computersystem 446 coupled to a computer support 448. FIG. 17 illustrates theoverbed table 410′ in a use position so that the computer system 446 isaccessible to a patient. As such, the patient has access to email, theinternet, a care plan, or other items such as computer games which arereadily accessible through a computer network. The patient may alsoconduct business or transmit emails to caregivers asking questions. FIG.18 illustrates the overbed table 410′ in a storage position where thecomputer system 446 is received within the storage recess 424 below thehorizontal plane of the table section 416.

Turning now to FIGS. 19 and 20, a further embodiment of overbed table510 is illustrated as including a storage unit 412 including a storagecavity or recess 424 similar to that disclosed above with respect to theoverbed table 410. The display device 124 in the overbed table 510 ispivotally connected to the storage unit 412 through a hinge 512. Assuch, the display device 124 may be pivoted about a horizontal axis 514between a use position where the display device 124 is positionedvertically above the table section 416 (FIG. 19) and a storage positionwherein the display device 124 is received within the storage cavity 424and below the horizontal plane of the table section 416 (FIG. 20).

Turning now to FIGS. 21 and 22, a further embodiment of overbed table610 is illustrated as again including a storage unit 412 including astorage cavity 424 similar to that detailed above with respect to theoverbed table 410. The display device 124 is removably supported withinthe storage cavity 424. Moreover, the display device 124 may bephysically removed from the storage cavity 424 and supported upon anupper surface 611 of the first table section 416 when in a use position(FIGS. 21 and 22). The display device includes a collapsible stand 612including a base 614 and at least one upright 618 connected to a rearsurface 616 of the display device 124. The base 614 and the upright 618are operably connected through a pair of pivots or hinges 620 and 622 sothat the base 614 may be folded into proximity with the uprights 616 and618 for storage within the storage cavity 424. A conventional wire orcable 624 operably connects the display device 124 to the processor 154.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 23and 24. The base 12 of the overbed table 710 includes a first dockingconnector 712 which mates with a second docking connector 714 coupled tothe frame 22 of the bed 21 below the mattress 24. The first dockingconnector 712 coupled with second docking connector 714 may be utilizedto supply electrical power to the display device 124 and to transmitinformation or signals thereto in a conventional manner. In a furtherembodiment, a retractable cord 718 is utilized to supply power to thedisplay device 124. More particularly, the retractable cord 718 isreceivable within a housing 720 supported by the bed frame 22. In afurther embodiment, the overbed table 710 includes a plurality ofupwardly-facing solar cells 722 supported on the base 12. The solarcells 722 are utilized to power components such as the display device124 supported on the overbed table 710. The battery 156 may be chargedthrough ambient light by the solar cells 720 using a conventionaltrickle charge. For nighttime use, a night light 724 may be provided incommunication with the solar cells 722. Moreover, the night light 724 issupported by the bed frame 22 and directs light downwardly toward thesolar cells 722. As such, at nighttime, the night light 724 provides asource of energy to the solar cells 722 to maintain the power for theelectrical components on the overbed table 710.

Additional details regarding interaction between the overbed table 10,710 and an external computer system are provided in pending U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/849,580, filed May 4, 2001, U.S. PatentApplication entitled “PATIENT POINT-OF-CARE COMPUTER SYSTEM”, filedconcurrently herewith, and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.60/310,092, filed Aug. 3, 2001, all of which are assigned to theassignee of the present invention and are expressly incorporated byreference herein.

Although the invention has been described in detail with reference tocertain illustrated embodiments, variations and modifications existwithin the scope and spirit of the invention as described and as definedin the following claims.

1. An overbed table comprising: a frame; a first table section coupledto said frame; a second table section coupled to said frame in verticalspaced relation to said first table section; and a display screencoupled to at least one of said first table section and said secondtable section and configured to move between a storage position and ause position, wherein said display screen is concealed by one of saidfirst table section and said second table section in said storageposition.
 2. The overbed table of claim 1, wherein at least one of saidfirst table section and said second table section is configured to movein a substantially horizontal plane with respect to the other of saidsecond table section and said first table section.
 3. The overbed tableof claim 2, wherein said second table section is coupled to said firsttable section such that movement of said second table section results insliding movement of said first table section.
 4. The overbed table ofclaim 1, further comprising a support positioned in vertical spacedrelation to said first table section, said support configured to moverelative to said first table section within a substantially horizontalplane.
 5. The overbed table of claim 4, wherein said support comprisesan arm including at least one handle.
 6. The overbed table of claim 5,wherein said arm includes first and second handles, and said displayscreen is supported intermediate said first and second handles.
 7. Theoverbed table of claim 4, wherein said support is pivotably connected tosaid first table section.
 8. The overbed table of claim 4, wherein saiddisplay screen is coupled to said support for pivoting movement about asubstantially horizontal first axis.
 9. The overbed table of claim 8,wherein said display screen is coupled to said support for pivotingmovement about a second axis extending substantially perpendicular tosaid first axis.
 10. The overbed table of claim 1, wherein said displayscreen is located intermediate said first and second table sections insaid storage position and extends above said first table section in saiduse position.
 11. The overbed table of claim 1, wherein said displayscreen comprises a flat panel monitor.
 12. The overbed table of claim 1,wherein said display screen comprises a reflective mirror.
 13. Theoverbed table of claim 1, further comprising a camera supportedproximate said display screen.
 14. The overbed table of claim 1, whereinsaid first table section is supported by said frame for movement betweena generally vertical position and a generally horizontal position. 15.The overbed table of claim 14, wherein said second table section isreleasably coupled to said first table section and said frame permitsmovement of said first table section between a generally verticalposition and a generally horizontal position independently of saidsecond table section.
 16. The overbed table of claim 15, wherein saidfirst table section is supported by said frame by an inner memberprovided on one of said frame and said first table section and an outermember provided on the other of said frame and said first table section,said inner member extending rotatably and slidably through said outermember to permit sliding movement and pivoting movement of said firsttable section with respect to said frame.
 17. The overbed table of claim14, further comprising a rest supported by one of said frame and saidfirst table section, said rest configured to support said first tablesection in said generally horizontal position.
 18. The overbed table ofclaim 1, wherein said frame includes a telescoping support columnincluding an outer column portion and an inner column portion, thetelescoping support column supporting said first and second tablesections, and a base coupled to the telescoping support column.
 19. Theoverbed table of claim 1, wherein said second table section is coupledto said first table section by a first pivotal coupling between saidfirst and second table sections.
 20. The overbed table of claim 19,wherein said first pivotal coupling includes a first bearing provided onone of said first and second table sections and a bearing race providedon said other of said first and second table sections, said firstbearing engaging said bearing race to permit pivoting of said secondtable section about a first axis with respect to said first tablesection.
 21. The overbed table of claim 1, further comprising aprocessor in communication with said display screen.
 22. The overbedtable of claim 1, further comprising a connector supported by said frameand configured to operably connect with a bed frame for placing thedisplay screen in communication with a processor.
 23. The overbed tableof claim 1 further comprising a camera supported by said frame andconfigured to be directed toward the head end of a patient supportsurface.
 24. The overbed table of claim 23, wherein said display screenincludes a viewable surface configured to be directed toward the headend of the patient support surface.
 25. The overbed table of claim 24,wherein said camera is supported by said display screen.
 26. The overbedtable of claim 24, further comprising a support configured to moverelative to one of said first table section and said second tablesection within a substantially horizontal plane, said display screenbeing coupled to said support and configured to move between a storageposition and a use position.
 27. The overbed table of claim 23, furthercomprising a processor supported by said frame and in communication withsaid camera.
 28. The overbed table of claim 23, further comprising aconnector supported by said frame and configured to operably connectwith a bed frame for placing the camera in communication with a remoteprocessor.
 29. The overbed table of claim 23, further comprising atleast one solar cell supported by said frame and operably connected tosaid camera.
 30. The overbed table of claim 29, wherein said at leastone solar cell is alignable with a light source connected to the patientsupport surface.
 31. The overbed table of claim 1 wherein said displayscreen comprises a display device supported by said frame and coupled toa power source, said display device including first and second sides,and a viewable surface supported by said first side and configured to bedirected toward a head end of a patient support surface.
 32. The overbedtable of claim 31, further comprising a camera supported by said frameand configured to be directed toward the head end of the patientsupport.
 33. The overbed table of claim 32, wherein said camera is incommunication with said display device to define an electronic mirror.34. The overbed table of claim 32, wherein said camera is supported bysaid display device.
 35. The overbed table of claim 31, furthercomprising a support configured to move relative to one of said firsttable section and second table section within a substantially horizontalplane, said display screen device being coupled to said support andconfigured to move between a storage position and a use position. 36.The overbed table of claim 31, further comprising a processor supportedby said frame and in communication with said display device.
 37. Theoverbed table of claim 31, further comprising a connector supported bysaid frame and configured to operably connect with a bed frame forplacing the display device in communication with a remote processor. 38.The overbed table of claim 31, further comprising at least one solarcell supported by said frame and operably connected to said displaydevice.
 39. The overbed table of claim 38, wherein said at least onesolar cell is alignable with a light source connected to the patientsupport surface.
 40. The overbed table of claim 31, further comprising areflective mirror supported by said second side of said display device.41. The overbed table of claim 4, wherein said support is coupled tosaid at least one of said first table section and second table sectionthrough said support.
 42. An overbed table comprising: a frame; a firsttable section coupled to said frame; a second table section coupled tosaid frame in vertical spaced relation to said first table section, atleast one of said first table section and said second table sectionconfigured to move in a substantially horizontal plane with respect tothe other of said second table section and said first table section,said second table section coupled to said first table section such thatmovement of said second table section results in sliding movement ofsaid first table section; and a display screen coupled to at least oneof said first table section and said second table section and configuredto move between a storage position and a use position.
 43. An overbedtable comprising: a frame; a first table section coupled to said frame;a second table section coupled to said frame in vertical spaced relationto said first table section; a support positioned in vertical spacedrelation to said first table section, said support configured to moverelative to said first table section within a substantially horizontalplane; and a display screen coupled to at least one of said first tablesection and said second table section and configured to move between astorage position and a use position, said display screen coupled to saidsupport for pivoting movement about a substantially horizontal firstaxis and about a second axis extending substantially perpendicular tosaid first axis.
 44. An overbed table comprising: a frame; a first tablesection coupled to said frame; a second table section coupled to saidframe in vertical spaced relation to said first table section, whereinsaid first table section is supported by said frame for movement betweena generally vertical position and a generally horizontal position, saidsecond table section releasably coupled to said first table section andsaid frame permits movement of said first table section between agenerally vertical position and a generally horizontal positionindependently of said second table section, wherein said first tablesection is supported by said frame by an inner member provided on one ofsaid frame and said first table section and an outer member provided onthe other of said frame and said first table section, said inner memberextending rotatably and slidably through said outer member to permitsliding movement and pivoting movement of said first table section withrespect to said frame; and a display screen coupled to at least one ofsaid first table section and said second table section and configured tomove between a storage position and a use position.
 45. An overbed tablecomprising: a frame; a first table section coupled to said frame; asecond table section coupled to said frame in vertical spaced relationto said first table section, said second table section coupled to saidfirst table section by a first pivotal coupling between said first andsecond table sections, wherein said first pivotal coupling includes afirst bearing provided on one of said first and second table sectionsand a bearing race provided on said other of said first and second tablesections, said first bearing engaging said bearing race to permitpivoting of said second table section about a first axis with respect tosaid first table section; and a display screen coupled to at least oneof said first table section and said second table section and configuredto move between a storage position and a use position.
 46. The overbedtable of claim 45, wherein said second table section is coupled to saidframe by a second pivotal coupling between said second table section andsaid frame.
 47. The overbed table of claim 46, wherein said secondpivotal coupling includes a trunnion provided on one of said frame andsaid second table section and a recess provided on the other of saidframe and said second table section for receiving said trunnion topermit pivoting of said second table section about a second axis withrespect to said first table section, said second axis being spaced fromsaid first axis.
 48. The overbed table of claim 47, wherein said displayscreen is coupled to said first table section by a third pivotalcoupling connected to said first table section.
 49. An overbed tablecomprising: a frame; a first table section coupled to said frame; asecond table section coupled to said frame in vertical spaced relationto said first table section; and a display screen coupled to at leastone of said first table section and said second table section andconfigured to move between a storage position and a use position whereinsaid display screen is located between said first table section and saidsecond table section in said storage position.